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Coledale RSL has reopened its doors after a staff member returned a negative COVID-19 result.
The venue closed on Monday because a staff member had worked after seeing their partner, who had been in contact with a known COVID-19 case.
Earlier
The pandemic has dealt more uncertainty and anxiety to Illawarra business owners, after a person who tested positive to COVID-19 visited their premises.
NSW Health says anyone who visited Bulli Beach Cafe and Austinmer's Headlands Hotel at certain times last Saturday and Tuesday respectively, must get tested and isolate until further instruction from NSW Health.
Lana Bloom, owner of Bulli Beach Cafe and Thirroul Beach Pavilion, decided to close both cafes after learning of the news on Sunday night.
Ms Bloom said all staff were tested on Monday morning, and the Bulli cafe would be deep-cleaned.
She said they continued to work with NSW Health, which would provide a risk assessment on the business.
"It's a little bit stressful, just because we've got such limited information," Ms Bloom said.
She said the team would have to wait and regroup once they had the outcome of the assessment.
Ms Bloom said staff all wore masks and the cafe had strict COVID-19 protocols in place.
"I feel blessed that it was a sunny summer, and we've got a fantastic customer base that's really supportive, but it's difficult, it's a really difficult time for everyone in hospitality at the moment," Ms Bloom said.
Headlands Hotel at Austinmer has also closed while staff get tested and the venue is cleaned.
Management said on social media that the venue would reopen in accordance with health advice..
Meanwhile, Fairy Meadow business Fedora Pasta said on its website that, having spoken to NSW Health and the public health officers at Wollongong Hospital, it was permitted to stay open.
People who visited the business in the possible exposure window do not have to get tested or isolate, but are advised to monitor for symptoms.
The business said that it had strict hygiene processes in place and followed health guidelines.
Coledale RSL is not listed among the possible exposure sites, but the venue closed on Monday as a staff member worked on Saturday and Sunday after seeing her partner, who had been in contact with a known COVID-19 case.
"Although the infected person did not visit Coledale RSL, we're doing everything we can to remain vigilant and keep our community safe," the RSL said on Facebook.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
